Peanut Allergies and MMC

Maritime Academy
1

I know someone who is pursuing their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) through a state maritime school and has a peanut allergy. This individual has been prescribed, and carries, an EpiPen. Their condition was noted on their entry USCG 719k but nothing has been said, or flagged, by the institution to date.

I understand that peanut allergies are problematic in the maritime industry but lack perspective on the extent of the challenges ahead for this individual. I would greatly appreciate any perspective, and recommendations, on how to advise this individual on their prospects for 1) successfully attaining their MMC with a peanut allergy and 2) their job prospects with a peanut allergy should they attain their MMC.

2

It’s a non-issue, I had 2 guys on my crew last trip that both had allergies and were licensed. They should make sure to either keep the epi on them or that medical responders on the crew know about the allergy and where the epi-pen is kept.

1 Like
3

Non-issue, but it depends how their doctor and NMC see it when they do the 719K. I’ve had crew with pretty severe allergies approved in the past though. :man_shrugging:t3:

Like @Tugboater203 said, they should make sure the captain (and the cook) are aware of it when they sign on.